The Cape Flyer train passes Buzzards Bay train station to pick up passengers Saturday, May 18, 2013. The train was making its maiden weekend passenger service from Boston to Hyannis Memorial Day through Labor Day. (Photo by Vincent DeWitt)

Get to Boston Without the Traffic! Options from Cape Cod, South Coast & Shore

We all know how tricky it can be to get into Boston by car, especially during rush hours or weekends when highways and bridge traffic can turn a quick trip into a long, stressful drive. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to deal with all that hassle! Whether you’re coming from Cape Cod, the South Coast, or the South Shore, there are smart, convenient alternatives that’ll get you into Boston smoothly — no driving required.

From Cape Cod: Take the Commuter Rail from Buzzards Bay

If you’re starting on Cape Cod, the easiest public transit option is the CapeFLYER, a seasonal passenger train that runs from Hyannis to Boston with a stop at Buzzards Bay Station. It operates on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, offering a great way to avoid summer traffic!

  • How it works: Drive or take a local shuttle to Buzzards Bay, park your car, and hop on the CapeFLYER for a relaxing ride straight to Boston’s South Station.
  • Why it’s great: You skip the busy Route 3 traffic, unwind on the train, and arrive right in downtown Boston — no driving required!
CapeFlyer train from Cape Cod to Boston

The CapeFLYER train passes Buzzards Bay Station – photo credit: Vincent DeWitt

From the South Coast: New T Stations in New Bedford & Fall River Make it Easier

And for South Coast travelers, there’s a brand-new option. On March 24, 2025, the MBTA officially opened new commuter rail stations in New Bedford and Fall River as part of the South Coast Rail project. For the first time in more than six decades, these communities now have direct train service to Boston’s South Station, making it easier than ever to leave the car at home and skip the traffic.

  • New Bedford Station: Conveniently located near downtown New Bedford, this station provides direct service to Boston’s South Station.
  • Fall River Station: Centrally located in Fall River, this station serves as your gateway to Boston, eliminating the need for a highway trip.

Both stations are on the new commuter rail line, which offers frequent service and a comfortable ride. This is a fantastic alternative to battling I-195 traffic or driving north on Route 24.New T Stations in New Bedford & Fall River

From the South Shore: MBTA Commuter Rail is Your Friend

If you’re coming from towns like Plymouth, Hingham, Quincy, or Weymouth, the MBTA Commuter Rail’s Greenbush Line or the Kingston/Plymouth Line are solid choices.

  • Greenbush Line: Runs through Scituate, Cohasset, and Hingham, offering quick access to Boston’s South Station.
  • Kingston/Plymouth Line: Starts in Plymouth or Kingston and heads straight into Boston.

Overall, these lines run regularly, ideal for commuters, day-trippers, or anyone looking to avoid the hassle of the highway.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Ride

  • Plan ahead: Check MBTA schedules online to catch the train at convenient times.
  • Your CharlieCard works seamlessly on subways and buses in the Boston area. For Commuter Rail and ferries, purchase fares using a paper CharlieTicket or the MBTA’s mTicket app.
  • Enjoy the ride: Use your train time to read, work, or just relax — no stress about traffic jams!

Child on train

Why Choose Public Transit?

  • Skip the traffic headaches.
  • Save on parking costs in Boston.
  • Relax, work, or enjoy the views.
  • Environmentally friendly

Next time you need to get to Boston from Cape Cod, the South Coast, or South Shore, skip the stress. Use the fantastic transit options available, especially the new South Coast Rail stations in New Bedford and Fall River. Traffic? What traffic?

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